WOODLAND — More than 700 students learned about career opportunities from more than 40 local businesses Monday at the Woodland Days Career Fair. The inaugural event was a partnership between Woodland Public Schools and the Port of Woodland to offer a career fair for students considering living-wage careers after high school not necessarily requiring additional education.
The partnership between the Port of Woodland and Woodland Public Schools stemmed from a renewed focus at the district level to align Career Technical Education classes at Woodland’s schools with local businesses needs in Clark and Cowlitz counties. “The job market outside the walls of our schools is rapidly changing,” said Asha Riley, assistant district superintendent. “Putting our students in touch with professionals in our workforce while still in school is one of the best ways to help our kids think about future career opportunities.”
Twenty-five businesses were expected to attend; more than 40 participated. “Woodland Days was beyond our expectations and truly hit on what we are trying to achieve for both the school district and the port — creating a place for our kids in the future by providing them opportunities for a successful future right here in our region,” Port Executive Director Jennifer Keene said.
